Scotland’s wind energy industry continues to astound observers, with the most recent figures from June showing that wind generated more than double the outputs, compared to a year earlier.
According to data provided and analysed by WeatherEnergy, and reported by Energy Voice, Scottish wind electricity output more than doubled in June, compared to the same time a year earlier, and though these figures were still down in May, June’s figures were still outstanding.
Wind energy generated enough electricity in June to supply the equivalent electricity needs of approximately 1.7 million Scottish households, or the equivalent of 33% of Scotland’s entire electricity needs for the month. Furthermore, wind energy generated in June generated enough electricity on six days out of the month to supply 100% or more of Scottish household needs.
“While much of the attention may have been focused on the welcome summer sunshine, June also turned out to be an astonishing month for wind power in Scotland,” said WWF Scotland director, Lang Banks. “Thanks to a combination of increased capacity and stronger winds, output from turbines more than doubled compared to the same period last year.
“These figures show just how much wind power has gone from strength to strength. However, wind power in Scotland could and should be playing an even bigger role in helping to reduce climate emissions from the power sector,” Banks added.
WWF Scotland, which also joined in on the announcement, was quick to point out the role that solar had as well. According to the environmental lobbyists, “sunshine generated more than four-fifths of the electricity and hot water needs of homes fitted with solar panels.”
“While good for generating power from the sun, the summer months often see a dip in the output from wind turbines,” said Karen Robinson, of WeatherEnergy. “And, while output was certainly lower than the month of May, this June saw a massive jump in output when compared to last year. While the data confirms Scotland is knocking out of the park on wind power, it also confirms it’s no slouch when it comes to solar power too.”
Scottish National Party MSP (Member of the Scottish Parliament) Mike Mackenzie said the figures released today showed that Scotland had a “real opportunity to be a world leader on renewable energy.”
“This excellent progress must not be put at risk by the reckless approach of a Tory government with scant regard for Scotland’s interests,” he said. “These outstanding new figures are a welcome demonstration of the strength of Scotland’s renewables industry, with a 120% boost on the previous year’s figure showing the incredible strides Scotland is making in producing clean, sustainable energy – and showing the vital role green energy can play in meeting our energy needs.
“This is exactly why the UK Government’s decision to cut onshore wind subsidies funded through the Renewables Obligation is so dangerous — which could see a loss of investment of up to £3 billion, put more than 5,000 jobs at risk and put at risk the excellent progress Scotland has made on renewables in recent years.”
